THOUGHT PIECES

According to Farm Credit Services of America, farmland values held steady in 2024, but as we head into 2025 signs of a market shift are emerging. As grain margins tighten and buyer caution increases, it’s crucial to stay informed on land value trends.

With water scarcity looming, the question of sustainable irrigation is paramount. Could a large-scale project, designed in a different era, hold the answers we need? Learn why the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project is sparking conversations about drought-proofing and the future of agriculture.

From global supply chains to weather patterns, numerous factors influence agriculture commodity prices. As we approach late 2024 and 2025, it’s crucial to understand the economic forces at play.

Bradley Calaway AFM, Root Agricultural Advisory, Boise, ID has been awarded the Accredited Farm Manager (AFM) designation from the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers® (ASFMRA®). Calaway earned the AFM designation by meeting stringent requirements in experience and education in addition to passing rigorous written examination and abiding by the American Society’s Code… Bradley Calaway AFM EARNS HIGHEST PROFESSIONAL STATUS

Most categories see volume increases, overall dollar sales remain stable DENVER — U.S. retail sales volume of potatoes was up 5.4% in July–September 2024 compared to the same period last year. Every category where volume rose—including fresh potatoes, chips, frozen potatoes, refrigerated potatoes, and deli-prepared sides—saw increases of more than 5%. Total dollar sales were… Potato Retail Sales Volume Rises in July-September 2024

Washington apple growers expect to harvest 124 million boxes of fresh-market apples this fall, returning to a more average crop size after last year’s high of 136 million boxes. The August crop estimate released this week by the Washington State Tree Fruit Association is the first estimate of the season and is subject to change… Washington apple industry expects a 124-million-box crop

Transitions are hard. It doesn’t matter what the transition involves, the nature of moving from one thing to the next is complicated. Farmland may be one of the toughest, says Steve Bohr of Farm Financial Strategies in Lisbon, Iowa. JENNIFER SHIKE

Significant changes across various regions will set the global blueberry industry up for continued success. Key trends shaping the future of the industry include increasingly advanced genetics and growers’ heightened focus on labor productivity and efficiencies, according to a recent study by RaboResearch. After a pause in 2023/24, blueberry exports are set to grow again.

This year’s crop of apples from Washington, a slightly smaller crop than 2023-2024’s, is considered a good quality one that’s suitable for export. “Overall shipments so far have been pretty good, and they are keeping up with where we need to be,” says Steve Reinholt, export business development for CMI Orchards, LLC. “Though it is… Export tariff talk on watch for Washington apple industry

By AGDAILY Reporters Today, the National Wheat Yield Contest announced the 26 national and 94 state winners for 2024-the ninth year of the contest. This year’s contest had 516 entries, the most ever. Among the list of winners, two new names joined title-winners, including Phillip Gross of Warden, Washington, earning Bin Buster honors with irrigated… Washington wheat farmer tops National Wheat Yield Contest